Francis courageously addressed critical world issues, says Pillai

Staff Reporter

Panaji

Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai said that Pope Francis will be remembered as a spiritual teacher of the highest order, who tirelessly spread the message of human love, global harmony, and peace.

Terming him as a “bold reformer”, Pillai said that Francis courageously addressed critical global issues—be it terrorism, climate change, or the plight of refugees—always standing firm for justice, compassion, and human dignity.

“His humility mirrored that of his namesake, St Francis of Assisi—renouncing wealth and luxury to embrace a life of simplicity and service. As Archbishop, he chose to live in a modest home, cooked his own meals, and travelled using public transport—a rare embodiment of spiritual authenticity in today’s world. The passing of Pope Francis is an immense loss to the spiritual world. In his memory, we find inspiration to live with humility, serve with love, and lead with kindness,” he said. 

“My heart recalls with deep emotion the personal blessing I received from him through Cardinal George Koovakatt, just four months ago at Raj Bhavan. During his visit, Koovakatt, on my request to honour him and his delegation from the Vatican, presented to me a blessed crucifix of Jesus Christ, two sacred rosaries, and a portrait of Mother Mary—an unforgettable gesture of spiritual grace that I shall always treasure,” Pillai said.

“Francis was truly a man of the poor and the marginalised. His book ‘The Name of God is Mercy’ (2015) stands as a greatness to his deep compassion and unwavering advocacy for the oppressed. I fondly remember the warmth and affection Pope extended to our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, when he visited Italy. His kind gesture was not only a mark of personal regard but also a symbol of his deep respect and love for India,” he added.